Nelda G. Barbee, 83, of Keokuk, IA formerly of Wayland, MO died Sunday, January 25, 2009 at the University of Iowa Hospital, in Iowa City, IA.

She was born on November 9, 1925 in Clark County, MO the daughter of John T. and Edith P. Dickson Gray. She first married Clarence Allen and he preceded her in death in 1983. On November 19, 1987 she was united in marriage to Gerald V. Barbee in Ft. Meyers, FL. He preceded her in death in 1995.Nelda had been employed at the Clark County Nursing Home in Kahoka, MO as a CNA for many years.

She was an active member of the Alexandria Presbyterian Church in Alexandria, MO.

Her hobbies included crocheting and plastic canvas and she was well known for her talents and beautiful projects. She loved being with her friends and having their morning coffee together.

Survivors include two sons, Martin Allen and his wife Tina of Reeds Spring, MO and Perry Allen of Wayland, MO, two daughters Thelma Norton and her husband Randy of Memphis, MO and Donna Ash of Keokuk, IA, six granddaughters, Lanea Whitney and her husband Bryan of Memphis, MO, Tonya Ash of Keokuk, IA , Jaymie Ash of Ottumwa, IA, Brandie Harris and her husband John of Vilonia, AR, Amber Allen of Vilonia, AR and Heather Allen of Vilonia, AR, one grandson Lance Norton of Memphis, MO, one great granddaughter, Hannah Whitney of Memphis, MO, a sister Doris Cluney of Oquawka, IL, several nieces and nephews and one special niece June Roberts of Keokuk, IA.

She was also preceded in death by three sisters, Geneva Roberts, Gertrude Rush and Gwendolyn Poverline and one brother, John Gray.

Graveside services were held at 11:00 am Tuesday, at the Oakhill Cemetery in Wayland, MO with Dr. David Castrodale officiating.Memorials may be made to the Alexandria Presbyterian Church.

On-line condolences may be sent to the family at www.vigenmemorialhome.com.